Conservatives elect new leadership team

It was a full house earlier this week as the Conservative Group, which leads East Devon District Council, elected its new leadership team at the Annual General Meeting.

With Paul Diviani stepping down after leading the Conservative Group and East Devon District Council to great success since 2011, interest in the future shape of the group was keen.

Ian Thomas, currently Portfolio Holder for Finance was elected as Group Leader. Ian has represented Trinity Ward, since 2009 and is a Director of the Exeter Science Park Company.

Colleague Philip Skinner, Portfolio Holder for Economy and Member for Tale Vale since 1999, secured the post of Deputy. Philip is a former Chair of the Tiverton and Honiton Conservative Association.

Commenting on their election, Ian Thomas said: “It’s a great privilege to take over the leadership of our group from Paul, after his distinguished time at the helm.”

“Our focus will continue on ensuring high quality affordable homes, an economy which works for all and delivering the services our residents and businesses value. We are uniquely fortunate to work within the framework of a natural environment second to none, supported by a range of leisure facilities and arts and culture events essential to the health, safety, prosperity and happiness of all we represent”.

“Whilst our new team has taken on leadership of the East Devon Conservative Group immediately, Paul will remain in post, as Leader of East Devon District Council, until the Annual Council Meeting on 16th May.

“Paul, Philip and I will take advantage of this time to ensure a smooth transfer of responsibilities to our new team, so the complex task of running a busy and ambitious district council continues, without missing a beat.”

Philip Skinner added:  “East Devon needs the energy, ideas and focus of our Conservative group to grow and prosper in challenging times. Our job is to continue our excellent performance, to extend the trust of our electorate, and return a larger Conservative majority in the 2019 District Council Elections so that East Devon continues to prosper for all.”

Paul Diviani concluded: “I’m very pleased to be able to pass the leaders baton of this fantastic council to such a talented and experienced team. Ian and Philip have already demonstrated a strong ability to work together and, through their Conservative principles of trust and respect, to engage their colleagues in setting policy and fighting to get the very best for our wonderful district, to the benefit of our residents, businesses and visitors”.